<%@ LANGUAGE=VBScript %> <% Option Explicit %> <% bConfidential = True iPublication = 24 %> Hydrocarbon Processing: 1994-Present Cumulative Index Subject-MAA - MAM


cumulative index: 1994 – present


Author:  A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q-R | S | T | U-V | W | X-Y-Z

Subject:  A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H I | K | L | M | N | O | P | R | S | T | U | V | W
 
   Maintenance Date
       
A case study in rapid machinery turnarounds
Here's how several major repairs were accomplished in less than a month
Jan-01
 
A quick guide to compressor suction knockout drum sizing
Mist eliminator and gravity settling methods are reviewed
 
Jun-03
 
A simple way to estimate equipment pressure drops
The equivalent line length method can be used to estimate equipment pressure drop at different operating conditions
 
Aug-05
 
An effective method for analyzing piping vibration problems
The matching mode shape technique combines field vibration data with natural frequency information
 
Apr-04
 
Achieve world-class maintenance turnarounds
Incorporate these work processes and key elements
 
Dec-02
 
Achieving industry-best asset optimization
Three essential objectives gain the performance level needed to obtain and sustain business success
 
May-05
 
Achieving world-class operating performance
Apply appropriate reliability and operating improvement techniques in an integrated process to match plant capabilities
 
Jan-05

Acoustic fatigue in large turbocompressors and pressure reduction system
A near-field sound pressure level screening method can predict problems

Aug-01
 
Air pollution control options to successfully manage VOC/HAP emissions
Choose the correct technology to comply with permitting requirements
 
Nov-03

All you need to know about centrifugal pumps, Part 1
Understand these factors for reliable, optimal operation

Aug-01

All you need to know about centrifugal pumps, Part 2
Specific applications, condition monitoring and other considerations are presented

Oct-01
 
Analyze bearing problems by ball path inspection
Use these guidelines for examining the contact surfaces of rolling elements to determine causes of failure

Apr-94

Analyzing gear failures
Use this information to identify and eliminate problems

Apr-00
 
Anatomy of a capacity increase, maintenance project for an ethylene unit
Revamp work is achieved both cost-effectively and safely
 
Jul-01

Apply mechanical reliability principles to turbomachinery design
Use these guidelines to improve availability

Oct-00

Applying and implementing risk-based inspection programs
Use these guidelines to help ensure success.

Jan-02
 
Applying FT-IR in chemical cleaning
This analysis technique can reduce maintenance costs by identifying deposits and films

Aug-97
 
Are you handling sulfur safely?
Through open and frank discussions, refiners and industry consultants endeavor to resolve problems and questions commonly encountered with sulfur recovery units
 
Jul-03
 
Are your valves operating at top efficiency?
Valve performance signatures play key roles in predictive maintenance programs

Jan-95
 
Audit your lubrication practices
Payback can usually be measured in days by finding areas that need improvement
 
Apr-03
 
Avoid control valve application problems with physics-based models
Kinetic energy criteria have many limitations
 
Aug-01
 
Avoid NGL plant machinery problems
Proper application and maintenance improve reliability
 
Jan-99
 
Avoid open impeller failures
Numerical methods can help determine causes of failure
 
Aug-02
 
Avoid pipe corrosion under insulation
Keys are proper selection, installation and maintenance
 
Apr-05
 
Avoid sulfuric acid corrosion in metallic stacks
Use these guidelines to prevent condensation of acidic gases
 
Mar-05
 
Bearing endurance and reliability – a user's perspective
Use this life estimating method for critical unspared equipment
 
Dec-04
 
Behavior of dry-running piston rod sealing systems in crosshead compressors
Various designs and materials were investigated
 
Sep-04

Benchmarking: a reliability driver
Approaches range from purely quantitative to highly qualitative

Aug-00
 
Benefits of advanced process control maintenance
Program reduces maintenance costs and increases return on investment

Jan-95
 
Better metallurgy for process equipment
Use these engineering and application data to aid selection

Jan-94

Case 1: The fatigued motor shaft
First in a series of bimonthly case histories. This one reveals why belt tension was the real cause of failure

Feb-01

Case 2: The hidden load in a three-bearing machine
A screening analysis helps in understanding the cause

Apr-01

Case 3: Shaft galling in a bushing
When troubleshooting, the cause may not be as obvious as it appears

Jun-01

Case 4: The wrong bearing in the right place
Calculate B10 life to ensure reliable operation

Aug-01

Case 5: Can we continue to operate the vessel?
Safe operation to a planned shutdown is always preferable

Oct-01

Case history 6: Keep those bolts tight
It's important to keep operating loads less than the bolt preload

Dec-01

Case 7: Why is the agitator agitated?
Analytical modeling can help identify the root cause

Feb-02

Case 8: Analyzing a leaking heat exchanger gasket
Thermal upsets can cause this problem

Apr-02
 
Case 9: The machine remembered
Machines have a memory of overstressed conditions
 
Jun-02
 
Case 10: Vibrating piping failures
Historical charts are useful in showing where not to operate
 
Aug-02
 
Case 11: Excessive ball valve seat wear
A wear model helps determine the root cause of the problem
 
Oct-02
 
Case 12: A compressor rod failure
Sometimes a troubleshooter has to be a detective
 
Dec-02
 
Case 13: Large internal thread strip-out
Analysis helps when making the tough decisions
 
Feb-03
 
Case 14: Analyzing crankshaft failure
Sometimes both metallurgical and mechanical analysis are required
 
Apr-03
 
Case 15: The thermally bowed shaft
Just a slight rub can self-generate more heat
 
Jun-03
 
Case 16: A piping failure due to water hammer
System upsets can develop high piping loads
 
Aug-03
 
Case 17: Wreck of a centrifugal pump
Understanding the entire flow system is important when determining the cause of a failure
 
Oct-03
 
Case 18: Problem-solving technique
An orderly procedure allows data to be organized and analyzed
 
Dec-03
 
Case 19: A steam turbine diaphragm failure
Confined water converted to steam develops high pressures
 
Feb-04
 
Case 20: Cold startup bearing failures
Excessive clearance and hard starts can cause problems
 
Apr-04
 
Case 21: Analyzing a spline failure
Torsional spline failures are telling you something
 
Jun-04
 
Case 22: The mysterious bending of impeller blades
A quick analysis helps solve an unexplained failure
 
Aug-04
 
Case 23: Analyzing a crack-like defect in a vessel wall
You should know what needs to be done but not necessarily how to do it
 
Oct-04
 
Case 24: The moving gearbox
Thermal distortions can move a 50-ton gearbox
 
Dec-04
 
Case 25: The leaking flange gasket
A simple calculation can help determine the cause
 
Feb-05
 
Case 26: Gathering failure data
Solving the problem wasn’t so easy
 
Apr-05
 
Case 27: Brittle fracture concerns on vessels
Specialists need to understand when they should obtain help
 
Jun-05
 
Case 28: Steel component fretting
The problem can greatly reduce component fatigue life
 
Aug-05
 
Case 29: Pressure buildup in a ‘blocked-in’ pipe
Liquid thermal expansion can rupture pipes
 
Oct-05
 
Case 30: One cause of a pump not pumping
A stronger pump can block out the weaker one
 
Dec-05
 
Case 37: Can you tell me how long it will last?
Troubleshooting differs from design

Mar-07
 
Case 38: Extruder wear prediction
An analysis can help avoid wear problems before they occur

May-07
 
Case 40: Troubleshooting gear face damage
A simple analysis can help in determining the root cause of the failure

Sep-07
 
Case 41: Cracking of a rotary dryer
An analysis can help provide a plan forward

Nov-07
 
Case 42: Torsional vibration problems can be costly
The results are hammering of the gears and fretting of the splines

Jan-08
 
Case 43: Containing a failed impeller
A quick analysis can help direct further efforts

Mar-08
 
Case 44: Cracking due to sudden temperature changes in piping
Excessive thermal stresses can be the cause

May-08

Case study in rapid machinery turnarounds, A
Here's how several major repairs were accomplished in less than a month

Jan-01
 
Case study in reliability implementation
These guidelines can be beneficial to any plant
 
Aug-02
 
Chemical plant satisfies OSHA and ISO standards
Improve employee skills and receive ISO certification, as well

Jun-95
 
Combine temperature surveys, field tests and gamma scans for effective troubleshooting
Each method offers pros and cons; yet combined, these techniques form a powerful tool to diagnose operational problems in fractionators
 
Apr-03
 
Combine troubleshooting and continuous monitoring of dynamic data for critical machinery
Advanced systems provide more data and increase reliability
 
Aug-05
 
Computer delivery of operating and maintenance procedures
Installing and implementing an electronic document management system can reduce labor costs

May-96
 
Computerization: problems and solutions
To stay competitive you can't avoid it. Follow these suggestions to sidestep the pitfalls

Jun-94
 
Condition monitoring for reciprocating compressors
Practical experience with computer-aided online systems shows how useful they can be
 
Sep-02
 
Conquer heat exchanger fouling
Use these guidelines to identify problems and ensure stable heat transfer

Jan-96
 
Controlling crude unit overhead corrosion by improved desalting
Here are benchmark values for evaluating the effectiveness of existing units
 
Feb-08
 
Consider a new contractor selection process for a shutdown alliance
This formalized quality evaluation can yield company-wide strategic benefits
Dec-98
 
Consider a practical approach to vacuum unit revamps
Here are some major operating issues to evaluate in the front-end design
 
Jan-06
 
Consider a risk-based inspection program to improve safety and availability
Within the framework of a process safety management program, this method helps to minimize maintenance costs and reduce plant risk level
 
Feb-03
 
Consider CFD modeling to improve reactor design for synthesis gas production
Advancements in computational fluid methods simulate dynamics and reactions for autothermal reformers
 
Jan-05

Consider compressor upgrade options
Substantial savings in time and money can be achieved

Jan-01
 
Consider diaphragm pumps for high environmental demands
Other benefits include lower maintenance costs and higher efficiency
 
Aug-03

Consider duplex stainless steels for corrosive exchanger service
Here's where they have solved corrosion problems

Oct-01

Consider fieldbus for retrofits
Benefits result from reduced maintenance, greater safety and increased performance

Sep-00
 
Consider FRP linings instead of replacing storage tank bottoms

Mar-95
 
Consider low fouling technology for ‘dirty' heat transfer services
Advances in heat exchanger designs mitigate fouling problems with crude oil
preheater trains while conserving energy and cutting operating costs

Mar-07
 
Consider multi-jackbolt tensioners
Benefits include improved safety and reduced cost and installation time
 
Apr-03
 
Consider multishaft compressors for hazardous applications
With the right precautions, they can be a more efficient, less expensive alternative to inline compressors
 
Jul-97
 
Consider new approach to estimate styrene industry metrics
Key benchmarks define operations performance for global industry
 
Dec-07
 
Consider online predictive technology to reduce electric motor maintenance costs
Continuous monitoring can increase plant revenue and minimize downtime
 
Jul-02

Consider precast polymer concrete pump foundations
Features include faster installation, improved corrosion resistance and lower vibration levels

Jul-01
 
Consider retrofits to handle high-viscosity crudes
Refiners must fine-tune crude unit process design and energy balance to process a heavy feedslate
 
Sep-04
 
Consider spiral heat exchangers for fouling applications
The inherent ‘self-cleaning’ action reduces downtime
 
Jul-05
 
Consider synthetic lubricants for process machinery
Improve performance and achieve significant savings in process plant operating costs

Jan-95
 
Consider tubing solutions to enhance plant efficiency
It is more economical and less prone to leaks in many applications
 
Dec-03

Consider using a new reliability tool: Weibull analysis for production data
Using these techniques, companies can distinguish between processing problems and reliability issues

Oct-01
 
Control microbial growth in your cooling water
Proper monitoring and chemical dosing can alleviate this challenge
 
May-04
 
Control valve fugitive emissions
Inspection and maintenance programs are the most cost-effective control measures

Aug-97

Control valves for critical applications
Know the causes of cavitation and flashing and how to prevent them

Jun-01
 
Control VOC emissions
Consider these helpful suggestions to reduce or eliminate hydrocarbon or toxic emissions in process plant

Aug-95
 
Controlling centrifugal pumps
Several options are available to match pump operating point to the process and still ensure system reliability

Jul-95
 
Cost-effective response to equipment failure
Use this decision process to improve safety and reliability
 
Oct-96
 
Creating the 'smart plant'
Before too long, your doorbell may ring and a repairman might say, ‘I received a request over the Web from your refrigerator to come and replace the drive belt.’ Will process equipment be far behind?
 
Oct-03
 
Cure liquid carryover from compressor suction drums
Here's how to apply mist eliminators for higher throughput and efficiency
 
Oct-04
 
Dealing with deceptive failure modes
Chemical failure mechanisms can disguise themselves as mechanical and vice versa
 
Jul-03
 
Defect analysis of an ammonia storage tank
Here's how the causes of unusual problems with this tank were determined
 
Apr-07
 
Delayed coker safety systems
Use automated drum switching and safety interlocks to increase safety and reliability
 
May-99
 
Design a safe, in-compliance relief valve
A workable scheme can satisfy management, plant personnel and regulating agencies that the system is properly designed and maintained

Oct-98

Design consideration to prevent heat exchanger failure
Tests show the importance of relief system design and location

Nov-00
 
Designing and maintaining plant piping and valve systems
Guidelines help develop safe, reliable layouts

Jul-97
 
Designing steam reformers for hydrogen production
Keep these important factors in mind when designing, revamping or troubleshooting

Jul-94
 
Detect corrosion under insulation
Real-time X-ray is a proven effective method

Jan-97
 
Detect shaft cracks earlier
Case study shows how an online monitoring system prevented a potentially catastrophic incident

Nov-95
 
Develop competencies to achieve reliability
The difference between high and low performers is about $40 million/yr

Mar-99
 
Diagnostics capabilities of Foundation fieldbus pressure transmitters
Tests in an FCC unit showed both instrument and process problems could be detected
 
Apr-03
 
Does the HON apply to your facility?
Refiners must use common-sense rules to meet new emission standards

Aug-94
 
Dry gas seals and support systems: benefits and options
Follow these guidelines for proper specification, installation and maintenance
 
Nov-03
 
Dynamic analysis of pipe stress
Proper mathematical modeling requires a good understanding of the fundamentals
 
Feb-03
 
Economics of ‘world class’ turnarounds
Understand the principles and substantially reduce costs

Jan-99
 
Effect of process deposits on the corrosion behavior of titanium in brine
The temperature and pH need to be controlled to avoid problems
 
Oct-05

Effective pH control through intelligent automation
This technology can improve reliability while reducing operating costs

Oct-07
 
Effectively design and stimulate thermosyphon reboiler systems, Part 1
Use these guidelines for an understanding of operating and modeling these low-maintenance exchanges

Jun-95
 
Effectively design and stimulate thermosyphon reboiler systems, Part 2
Use these guidelines for an understanding of operating and modeling these low-maintenance exchangers

Jul-95
 
Eliminate risky trends in reliability management
Follow these guidelines to improve process safety and reduce maintenance costs
 
Jan-08
 
Energy waste: A process quality defect?
Many engineers know how their companies could profitably save energy, but the problem is to convince management

Feb-96
 
Enhancing equipment performance and operating life: an update
Four upgrade opportunities are presented

May-07
 
Environmental Processes Handbook
This handbook-type industry reference source features emerging remedial processes handling air, water and solid HPI waste streams. Each 'clean' process technology description includes flow diagram as well as application, operations, waste definitions, regulatory applications, economics and licensor information.
   
 

Environmental Processes '93

Aug-93
 

Environmental Processes '94

Aug-94
 

Environmental Processes '96

Aug-96
 

Environmental Processes '98

Aug-98
 
Equipment health management program improves plant reliability
Following these guidelines will ensure a well-designed and efficient plant
 
Oct-97
 
Evaluate piping dynamic stresses
Use these calculations for a quick, accurate analysis
 
Jun-00

Evaluating troubleshooting skills
Use this test to help prevent and solve plant problems

Oct-00
 
Experience with pump gas seals
Lab tests and field installations show the advantages of this technology for many applications

Jan-97
 
Failure analysis of a primary reformer riser
Investigation revealed the root cause was creep rupture
 
Nov-03
 
Failure analysis of a steam–hydrocarbon reformer
Catalyst and tube performance should be monitored to prevent problems

Mar-07
 
Failure analysis of an ethylene cracking heater finned tube
Here’s what caused the leak and the steps taken to prevent future leaks

May-07
 
Field analysis of multisection compressors
Use these guidelines to help ensure proper procedures are followed

Jan-98

Fieldbus improves control and asset management
Substantial benefits are realized from increased diagnostics and process data.

Jan-02
 
Find equipment misalignment quickly and easily
Use infrared thermography to improve predictive maintenance

Jan-96
 
Fine-tune SCR operations
Improving the quality of aqueous ammonia can reduce maintenance and raise reliability for pollutant-abatement system
 
Jan-05
 
Flexible-element couplings: How safe is safe?
Use these guidelines to help evaluate disc and diaphragm designs for turbomachinery

Dec-94

Flow-induced noise and vibration in turbocompressors and piping systems
Identify, diagnose and solve related problems

Oct-00

Gas lubricated mechanical seals for pumps
New designs decrease the conversion cost for older pumps and improve reliability

Jan-01
 
Gas turbine fuel nozzle refurbishment
Follow these guidelines to improve reliability and reduce emissions
 
Jan-04
 
Gear standards: comparing ratings and requirements
Understanding the differences can help reduce problems
 
Aug-02